GEORGE NEWS - In a powerful display of local running talent, the George athletes of the Nedbank Running Club SWD swept the podiums at the annual Meiringspoort races held in De Rust on Saturday 11 October.
The men’s 21.1km half-marathon saw a clean sweep for the George-based club.
Lloyd Bosman led from the start and crossed the finish line in a superb 1:04:02, maintaining a blistering pace of 3:04 per kilometre.
Teammate Selwyn Matthews followed in 1:05:31, just one minute and 29 seconds behind, while Francois Maquassa secured third place in 1:08:54 at a steady 3:18/km.
The women’s 21.1km race also produced top performances, with Jandri Snyders of the Hartenbos Drawwers taking first in 1:22:33. Close behind was Carla Spangenberg of Nedbank Running Club SWD in 1:23:39, with Minette van Zyl finishing third in 1:24:41.
In the 12.5km event, Nedbank SWD continued its dominance. Rico van der Horst raced to victory in 38:28, followed by clubmate Bruce Maboza in 39:59. Werner Julies of De Rust Striders claimed third in 41:16.
Lloyd Bosman during the race.
The women’s 12.5km race showcased rising talent as Micke Jansen van Rensburg of Boxer AC claimed victory in 49:25.
Louise Dippenaar finished second in 49:54, while Nedbank SWD’s Kezia Matthysen took third in 52:32.
This year’s Meiringspoort event drew about 3 500 athletes in total across both distances. The race, known for its breathtaking route through the poort between Klaarstroom and De Rust, once again delivered spectacular running conditions and strong competition.
For Nedbank Running Club SWD, the results mark a weekend of dominance and highlight the club’s depth of talent. Their success not only cements their position as one of the region’s leading running clubs, but also inspires runners across the Garden Route.
Selwyn Matthews and Francois Maquassa.
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